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FLV vsMKV: Key Differences & Best Format for You

Compare the features of FLV and MKV file formats to choose the best option for your needs.

Basic Information

FLVMKV
CategoryThe general type of file (audio, image, etc.).
videovideo
CompressionMethod used to reduce file size (Lossy, Lossless, Uncompressed).
LossyLossy
Relative SizeTypical file size compared to other formats.
MediumLarge
MIME TypesCommon MIME types associated with the format.
  • video/x-flv
  • video/x-matroska
Open FormatIs the format specification publicly available and free to use?
NoYes

Technical Details

FLVMKV
Bit DepthNumber of bits used to represent color or audio sample amplitude (higher means more detail).
--
ResolutionImage dimensions (pixels) or audio sample rate/video dimensions.
VariableVariable (up to 8K and beyond)
Max QualityHighest achievable quality level or characteristic.
Variable (depends on codec)High (depends on codec)
Encoding MethodSpecific algorithm or standard used for encoding the data.
Sorenson Spark / VP6 / H.264 video, MP3/AAC audioVarious (H.264, H.265, VP9, AV1 video; AAC, AC3, DTS, Opus audio)
Max File Size LimitAny known maximum file size limitations.
--

Features & Usage

FLVMKV
CompatibilitySoftware, devices, or platforms that support the format.
  • Adobe Flash Player (obsolete)
  • VLC
  • Some streaming sites (legacy)
  • VLC
  • Plex
  • Kodi
  • Windows 10+
  • Many modern media players/TVs
Use CasesCommon applications and scenarios where the format is used.
  • Web video streaming (legacy Flash)
  • Early YouTube
  • Storing movies and TV shows
  • High-definition video playback
  • Archiving video with multiple tracks
Metadata SupportCan the format store additional information (tags, descriptions, etc.)?
YesYes
Transparency SupportDoes the format support transparent backgrounds (for images)?
--
Editing FriendlyIs the format suitable for easy editing without significant quality loss?
NoNo
Encryption SupportDoes the format support password protection or encryption?
--

Pros & Cons

FLVMKV
ProsAdvantages and strengths of the format.
  • Good for streaming in the Flash era
  • Relatively small file size
  • Open standard container format
  • Supports multiple video/audio/subtitle tracks
  • Flexible and feature-rich
  • Good for high-definition content
ConsDisadvantages and weaknesses of the format.
  • Requires Flash Player (obsolete and insecure)
  • Replaced by HTML5 video (MP4, WebM)
  • Not natively supported by Apple devices/QuickTime
  • Can sometimes have playback issues if uncommon codecs are used